Cerulean
Cerulean
Color of the Week! History, Interior Design and Color Palette
This serene and refreshing shade of blue you see below, cerulean, is originally inspired by the sky itself!
Cerulean takes its name from nature—in this case, from the Latin word caeruleus, meaning "sky" or "heaven."
A Brief History
Cerulean has been around for centuries, most famously used as a pigment in paintings and artwork during the Renaissance.
The name officially became associated with this vivid blue in the late 19th century when synthetic cerulean blue pigment was developed. Its bright yet soft tone made it a favorite for capturing expansive skies and calm waters in art.
The color became a major player in modern fashion and design in the early 2000s, when it was dubbed the "Color of the Millennium" by Pantone (though they used a more muted version of the color).
It also made a famous cameo in The Devil Wears Prada!
Cerulean’s impact is undoubtedly more than just a passing trend. Very much remains popular today!
Cerulean in Design: A Soothing Classic
Unlike some bolder colors, cerulean has a gentle energy that can work beautifully in both large doses and as an accent.
Before we explore how this timeless blue can elevate your space, take a look at some interior inspiration images featuring cerulean.
Best Interior Styles for Cerulean
Cerulean’s soothing nature makes it a great fit for a variety of interior design styles, from minimalist to coastal and even modern.
Coastal: As a color reminiscent of the sea and sky, cerulean is a natural fit for coastal interiors. Think breezy beach houses with white-washed walls and accents of cerulean in throw pillows, curtains, or even statement furniture.
Minimalist: Cerulean can also be a great addition to minimalist spaces. Its soft, inviting hue pairs perfectly with whites, grays, and other neutral tones, adding a touch of color without disrupting the clean lines and simple aesthetics of minimalist design.
Modern: Cerulean pops in modern design as a refreshing break from the usual black, gray, and white palette. You can add cerulean through contemporary artwork, sleek vases, or bold statement rugs to give the room an energetic yet calming vibe.
Physically Incorporating It
While cerulean is calming, it’s still important to use it thoughtfully in your space. Here are a few ideas on how to incorporate cerulean in a balanced and beautiful way:
Walls and Furniture: For a serene and calming environment, cerulean works well on walls in bedrooms or living rooms. If you want to make more of a statement, consider a cerulean couch or accent chair to add a soft pop of color.
Pair It with Natural Materials: Cerulean pairs beautifully with natural materials like wood, stone, and linen. The organic textures of these materials help to ground the cool tones of the blue, creating a harmonious balance.
Soft Accents: If you prefer subtle touches, cerulean can shine in accents such as throw pillows, blankets, or artwork. It adds just the right amount of color without overpowering the space.
Cerulean Color Palette
Below I’ve curated a color palette including a muted brown, burnt orange, beige, and mustard yellow. It blends the calming coolness of cerulean with the earthy richness of muted tones and the vibrant energy of warm accents.
Together, these colors create a harmonious yet dynamic atmosphere. Check it out!
Color Characteristics
If you’re interested in using cerulean in one of your design projects, here are its digital color characteristics:
Hex Code: #007BA7
RGB Values: (0, 123, 167)
Cerulean may not scream for attention, but that’s what makes it so special. It’s a calming, elegant color that works in a range of settings and styles, offering both versatility and timeless appeal.
Hopefully, you enjoyed learning about cerulean! As always, if you have a color in mind that you’d like for me to cover in next week’s COTW, feel free to comment below!
I really like your colour palette, such a warm, rich combination of colours.